Scientists have developed colour-changing bandages that can “sense” bacterial infections and treat them accordingly by releasing relevant medication. Researchers in China say their work could help pave the way for “rational use” of antibiotics and prevent their misuse or overuse. Official figures suggest 5,000 deaths are caused every year in the UK because antibiotics no longer work for some infections. The researchers incorporated the material into bandages and tested them on wounds in mice which were infected with either drug-sensitive or drug-resistant Escherichia coli (E.coli) bacteria. The researchers say that sensing and treating bacterial infections quickly could help improve patients’ recovery as well curb the spread of antibiotic-resistant microbes.

Source: Irish Examiner January 29, 2020 13:07 UTC